Why You Should Adopt a Senior Dog

By Dorian Wagner

Looking to adopt a dog? Here are five reasons why you should give a senior dog a second look!

1. Senior dogs have already learned their lessons. Their destructive shoe-chewing and furniture-gnawing days are behind them.

2. They love to relax. Since they are past the hyper puppy phase of their lives, older dogs love napping and resting, giving you peaceful cuddling time to look forward to together.

3. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Senior dogs are just as smart, and they’re usually more attentive and patient than young puppies.

4. They know when to take care of business. Older dogs have already learned to “go” outside, saving you from the teaching process.

5. Senior dogs have a lot of love to give. Sure, you may not have as much time together. But imagine the joy you can share and adoration they’ll have because you gave them a second chance at life!

Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters, as people tend to set their sights on small, cute puppies. But puppies aren’t puppies forever, so why not choose the wise, older dog in the next kennel instead? He just may be your new best friend.

Posted on February 19, 2012

Phil Rupel says: I am 70yrs and want a teacup pomeranian.

Posted on October 2, 2011

bef says: We adopted an 8 year old pitbull. She'd basically just produced puppies for most of her life, so she came with her own set of issues. She's the sweetest, gentlest dog we've ever met, and an essential part of our lives. We love our Amy, and wouldnt' trade her for anything.

Posted on July 23, 2011

dandiemom says: I adopted a 10 year old dandie dinmont terrier. He is now 13 and has been such a treasure. Hooray to everyone that adopts a senior dog.

Posted on June 22, 2011

donnal says: We adopted a 10 year old yellow lab, Hooch, who was in great shape. He loved to go for walks and fetch sticks in the lake. We couldn't have loved him more if we had gotten him as a puppy.

Posted on June 16, 2011

ducky1776 says: I just adopted an 8 year old beagle and can confirm everything said above. She is very loving, trained and still has some devilment in her. I couldn't ask for a better friend.